Page 95 of Animal Beats

I can’t wait, and text him.

Had an interview with Behind the Memories. Pulling together a portfolio for them to evaluate. What do you think of this one? [I attach the photo of him playing the buckets]

They do day in the life type merch?

Exactly.

I love this one. I was teaching Mila here, right?

Yup

However, this one is even better.

He attaches a picture of himself naked in bed, with both of his palms over his junk. Clever man must’ve used the timer.

Took it for you!

Iroll my eyes. That boy! I take a closer look and am blown away by the specimen on my phone. I sigh.

I’ll treasure it forever.

How would you like to see all this in person?

My heart races. I wish—but I’m in the US and he’s in Europe.

We’re a whole continent apart.

We won’t be next week. We’re heading to the Oscars, remember? I’ll send you 2 tickets.

Two?

For you and Mila.

Just when I think he can’t get any sweeter. However, my sister couldn’t handle the crowds and the lights at the Oscars.

Thank you! However, it would be too overwhelming for my sister.

You know best. But I’ll guarantee she’ll feel like she’s with us. Say you’ll come.

No way will I turn him down. I want to be with him. Tell him more about BTM. More importantly, tell him what I didn’t in Lisbon—that I love him. Not because of his money, but for who he is. In his heart.

I’d love to.

28

RÍO

Iwake up next to the most wonderful woman in the world. Hayden arrived yesterday afternoon, and we spent every single moment since then in my apartment. In bed.

She plucks the blanket. “When did you buy this house?”

“About ten years ago, when the band got their first Number One album. I fell in love because of the view” Both of our gazes dart out of the sliders.

“It’s gorgeous here.”

I kiss her cheek because I need to continue our contact. “More so with you in it.”

“This feels like a dream.”